Two oyster-restoration areas in Great Bay will close to all shellfish harvesting Nov. 1, New Hampshire Fish and Game announced Oct. 29.
The closure runs through Oct. 31, 2031. It covers about five acres near Woodman Point and 15 acres near Nannie Island, a total of 20 acres.
Fish and Game said the areas are part of restoration work with The Nature Conservancy and the University of New Hampshire.
The restriction applies to the designated restoration sites, rather than every oyster reef around Nannie Island or the entire bay. The remaining Nannie Island oyster reef and Woodman Point oyster reef are excluded and remain open to recreational oyster harvesters, the department said.
Fish and Game said the five-year closure is intended to help the restoration work succeed and oyster populations grow. A map of the closed areas accompanies its notice.
Fish and Game oyster-restoration closure notice; Official program guidance.